University Of Iowa Old Capitol Dome Oculus

In 2001, an unfortunate fire destroyed the dome on the Old Capitol building in Iowa City, Iowa. Barnes Manufacturing was called in to help with the re-building of the new oculus (door) for the flag pole as well as a flag halyard guide on top of the dome. We were honored to work on such an important part of Iowa history.

oc·u·lus

ˈäkyələs, noun, ARCHITECTURE

—a round or eyelike opening or design, in particular.

Our team worked with the engineers and architects at Cedar Rapids, based OPN to get the project from design to delivery. The installation of this custom manufactured element on top of a building over 150 years old was no small feat. The team took much pride in helping restore the iconic dome to its former glory.